Aftershokz headphones are a popular choice for users seeking a comfortable and immersive audio experience. However, some users have reported microphone issues when using Aftershokz headphones with Microsoft Teams. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to troubleshooting and resolving these microphone problems.
1. Confirm Audio Device Selection in Microsoft Teams
Ensure that the Aftershokz microphone is selected as the audio input device within Microsoft Teams. To do this:
- Open Microsoft Teams and click on your profile picture.
- Select “Settings” and navigate to the “Devices” tab.
- Under “Microphone,” choose the Aftershokz microphone from the available options.
2. Check Microphone Permissions in Windows Settings
Verify that Microsoft Teams has permission to access the Aftershokz microphone in Windows settings:
- Open Windows Settings and navigate to “Privacy.”
- Select “Microphone” and ensure that “Allow apps to access your microphone” is enabled.
- Scroll down and make sure that Microsoft Teams is listed under “Allowed apps” and that the toggle next to it is turned on.
3. Disable Bluetooth LE Enumerator
Some users have found success in resolving microphone issues by disabling the Bluetooth LE Enumerator:
- Press “Windows Key + X” and select “Device Manager.”
- Expand the “Bluetooth” section and right-click on “Bluetooth LE Enumerator.”
- Choose “Disable device” and confirm the action.
4. Select Internal Microphone in Teams Settings (Temporary Solution)
As a temporary workaround, some users have reported success by selecting their laptop’s internal microphone instead of the Aftershokz microphone within Microsoft Teams:
- Open Microsoft Teams and navigate to “Settings.”
- Select the “Devices” tab and choose your laptop’s internal microphone under “Microphone.”
5. Adjust Wi-Fi Frequency to Mitigate Interference
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals can interfere with each other, especially if both operate on the 2.4 GHz frequency. To minimize interference:
- Change your Wi-Fi router’s frequency to 5 GHz, if available.
- If the issue persists, try switching back to 2.4 GHz to determine which frequency works best for your setup.
6. Disable Handsfree Telephony for Bluetooth Headset
Disabling Handsfree Telephony for the Aftershokz headset has been reported to resolve microphone issues for some users:
- Press “Windows Key + R” to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “Control Panel” and press “Enter.”
- Select “Devices and Printers” and right-click on the Aftershokz headset.
- Choose “Properties” and navigate to the “Services” tab.
- Uncheck the “Handsfree Telephony” checkbox and click “Apply” followed by “OK.”
7. Update Bluetooth Driver for Improved Functionality
An outdated or corrupted Bluetooth driver can cause microphone problems. To update the driver:
- Open Device Manager and expand the “Bluetooth” section.
- Right-click on the Aftershokz Bluetooth driver and select “Update driver.”
- Choose “Search automatically for drivers” and follow the on-screen instructions to install any available updates.
8. Utilize Microsoft Teams Web Version as an Alternative
If the microphone issue persists despite trying the above solutions, consider using the Microsoft Teams web version:
- Access Microsoft Teams through your preferred web browser.
- Log in to your account and use the web version as an alternative to the desktop app.
9. Consult the List of Approved Devices for Microsoft Teams
Microsoft maintains a list of approved Bluetooth devices that have been certified for optimal compatibility with Microsoft Teams:
- Visit the Microsoft website and refer to the list of approved devices.
- Consider using an approved device if your Aftershokz headphones are not listed.
Conclusion
By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can effectively resolve microphone issues experienced with Aftershokz headphones when using Microsoft Teams. These solutions address various potential causes, including incorrect audio device selection, microphone permissions, Bluetooth interference, and outdated drivers. If the issue persists despite trying all the suggested solutions, consider using the Microsoft Teams web version or exploring alternative Bluetooth devices that are certified for use with Microsoft Teams.
FAQ
What should I do if my Aftershokz microphone is not working with Microsoft Teams?
Ensure that the Aftershokz microphone is selected as the audio input device in Microsoft Teams, and that Microsoft Teams has permission to access the microphone in Windows Settings. Additionally, try disabling the Bluetooth LE Enumerator and updating your Bluetooth driver.
Why is my Aftershokz microphone not picking up my voice in Microsoft Teams?
Check that the Aftershokz microphone is properly positioned and that the volume is turned up. Additionally, make sure that the microphone is not muted in Microsoft Teams or in your computer’s audio settings.
What can I do to improve the audio quality of my Aftershokz microphone in Microsoft Teams?
Ensure that you are in a quiet environment with minimal background noise. Additionally, try adjusting the microphone settings in Microsoft Teams to increase the microphone volume and reduce background noise.
I’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps but my Aftershokz microphone still isn’t working. What else can I do?
If the issue persists despite trying all the suggested solutions, consider using the Microsoft Teams web version or exploring alternative Bluetooth devices that are certified for use with Microsoft Teams.
Is there a list of approved Bluetooth devices for Microsoft Teams?
Yes, Microsoft maintains a list of approved Bluetooth devices that have been certified for optimal compatibility with Microsoft Teams. You can find this list on the Microsoft website.
What is Handsfree Telephony and how does it affect my Aftershokz microphone?
Handsfree Telephony is a feature that allows you to use your Bluetooth headset to make and receive phone calls. Disabling Handsfree Telephony can sometimes resolve microphone issues with Bluetooth headsets in Microsoft Teams.
Why does changing my Wi-Fi frequency help resolve microphone issues?
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals can interfere with each other, especially if both operate on the 2.4 GHz frequency. Changing your Wi-Fi router’s frequency to 5 GHz, if available, can minimize interference and improve the performance of your Aftershokz microphone in Microsoft Teams.